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Chateau Montelena - Chardonnay label
Chateau Montelena - Chardonnay bottle

Chateau Montelena - Chardonnay 2015

White Wine

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Item# 70716-15

Introduction

Growing Chardonnay during the 2015 vintage perfectly illustrates the importance of patience. I have no idea ifRousseau was thinking of vineyards and wine when he remarked that "patience is bitter, but its fruits are sweet." Even if that wasn’t the case, his quip couldn’t be more applicable as we reflect on a growing season that was simultaneously challenging but also incredibly rewarding. As temperatures rose in August, and the temptation to panic began to grip many growers in the Valley, we recognized an amazing opportunity to pivot and embrace the ripe, tropical character that would slowly creep into our Chardonnay with some judicious hangtime, careful farming, and utmost patience. Foremost in our minds though, remained the need to balance these incredible aromas and flavors with the vibrant acidity that makes our Chardonnay ageable. While I wouldn’t say our scheme wasn’t without risk, the result of our composure, grit, and a little bit of luck is nothing short of rich and delicious.

Technical data

HARVEST DATES: August 19 – September 8
ALCOHOL: 13.6%
BLEND: 100% Chardonnay
BARREL AGING: 10 months in French Oak
BOTTLING DATE: July 22 – August 1, 2016
RELEASE DATE: Fall 2017

Vintage weather

Despite some early, sizable winter storms, the beginning of the 2015 growing season turned mild and dry prompting early budbreak in the vineyards. A light crop, resulting from a rather blustery April and May, soaked up the sun during a picture perfect Napa Valley summer. Harvesting began in mid-August as the temperatures began to warm and dry-breezes from the desert pressed us into action.